Governors travel to Brasília to discuss pension reform

A report on the overhaul is expected to be brought forward this week

Published on 10/06/2019 - 14:50 By Karine Melo - Brasília

As the date approaches for the presentation of a report on the reform of Brazil’s pension system—this week at a special lower house commission deliberating on the bill—the pressure continues on state and municipal leaders to remain in the document, as originally proposed by the government. Tomorrow (Jun 11), Brazilian state governors are flying to Brasília to further debate the matter at the 5th meeting of the Forum of Governors. A letter that had its release brought forward last Thursday (6) by the forum displeased governors in the Northeast.

The missive notes the importance of having states in the scope of the overhaul because of the deficit in the retirement and pension system for civil servants and officials. Despite the signature of seven of the nine governors in the region, they deny they have given the green light to the new legislation. A response came the same day in another letter, signed by all Northeastern governors.

In it, in addition to the aspects listed in the Forum letter, they mention specific items they want to see out of the reform, like changes in the Continuous Provision Benefit (BPC in the original acronym) and the rural retirement system. They also argue the pension system is being handled in an unconstitutional manner, and question the so-called capitalization system, on which future rules are to be based.

Translation: Fabrício Ferreira -  Edition: Graça Adjuto / José Romildo

Latest news